Hilary Duff is paying tribute to her late TV father, Lizzie McGuire star Robert Carradine.
The former Disney Channel actress took to her Instagram late Monday (Feb. 23) to share her condolences after news broke that Carradine had died following a nearly two-decade battle with Bipolar Disorder. In a post, Duff remembered Carradine’s kindness on set.
“This one hurts. It’s really hard to face this reality about an old friend. There was so much warmth in the McGuire family and I always felt so cared for by my on-screen parents. I’ll be forever grateful for that,” Duff wrote, adding photos from their time working together.
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She continued, “I’m deeply sad to learn Bobby was suffering. My heart aches for him , his family, and everyone who loved him. 💔”
Carradine portrayed Sam McGuire on both seasons of Lizzie McGuire as well as The Lizzie McGuire Movie. He was also set to reprise his role on the ill-fated Lizzie McGuire reboot.
Following Carradine’s death, his family remembered him in a statement and reflected on his mental health struggles.
“It is with profound sadness that we must share that our beloved father, grandfather, uncle, and brother Robert Carradine has passed away. In a world that can feel so dark, Bobby was always a beacon on light to everyone around him,” his family began.
They continued, “We are bereft at the loss of this beautiful soul and want to acknowledge Bobby’s valiant struggle against his nearly two-decade battle with Bipolar Disorder. We hope his journey can shine a light and encourage addressing the stigma that attaches to mental illness.”
Our thoughts are with Robert Carradine’s friends, family and costars during this difficult time.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal ideation call or text 988 to connect to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
